WATERLOO – Wilfrid Laurier University will receive $216,842 from the Government of Canada to launch a project that will provide 20 recent graduates and graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs with paid internships.

The announcement was made today at Wilfrid Laurier University by Peter Braid, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Waterloo, on behalf of the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev).

The investment comes from FedDev Ontario’s Graduate Enterprise Internship program (GEI). The program provides funding for small- and medium-sized enterprises and post-secondary institutions to develop internship opportunities for recent graduates and graduate students to help develop their business and management skills.

“The Government of Canada is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity,” said Braid. “Our investment in this project at Wilfrid Laurier University will help young scientists and engineers get the experience, mentorship and business skills they need as they develop into the next generation of leaders in business and innovation in southern Ontario, while allowing businesses to tap into the knowledge and fresh perspectives that the interns bring.”

“Laurier is looking forward to the launch of this program,” said Laurier Vice-President: Research Abby Goodrum. ”Our science programs address some of society’s most pressing issues and leave our graduates well positioned to begin productive careers. This program will also help to grow local industry and build long-standing collaborative relationships for innovation, turning ideas into research, development and exportable products and services.”

The funding will help Laurier to launch its Laurier-Industry Internship Program, which will focus on bringing students and companies together for six-month internships. The university is in the process of contacting businesses in southern Ontario and students in Laurier science programs to encourage their involvement.

“The Laurier-Industry Internship Program will not only help students find jobs, but will also attract more students to sciences,” said Yaser Kerachian, university-industry liaison officer at Laurier.